16th Annual Lake Cushing Classic Skims Through Squaw At Last

May 2, 2006Olympic Valley, CA - (News Release) - It was originally scheduled for April 29th, but when Lake Cushing experts came out to survey the pond they said "No way. It's frozen solid." So the pond crossing got pushed back a week, to May 6th. Once again, the experts came out and the verdict was, "No way. It's still frozen solid." Rumors circulated that a secret posse would venture out with chainsaws in the middle of the night and bust through the ice. Alas, those were only rumors and many were left wondering if the famous, the beloved, the Lake Cushing Classic pond skimming event would ever happen. The experts have met and an executive decision has been made: Lake Tahoe's original pond crossing, the Lake Cushing Classic will return to the icy waters of Lake Cushing on Saturday, May 13th.

For those of you who don't know what all of the buzz is about, the Cushing Classic is Squaw Valley's signature spring event. Pond skimming is when a man, woman, or super hero attempts to cross a pond on some form of ski or snowboard equipment. Many ski resorts have had their go at pond skimming events, but none have done it quite like Squaw Valley. Perhaps it is because the men and women at Squaw are a little more daring, a little more agile, and a little bit better on sticks. Or maybe, it's because the Cushing Classic is held on a real pond, rather than a tarp-lined ditch or kiddie pool.

Hundreds of spectators travel from far and wide to watch local lunatics and adventurous guests attempt to cross Lake Cushing. The goal is to get enough speed down the snow ramp to make it to the opposite side of the lake without falling. This contest is notorious for it's colossal crashes, hilarious costumes, and ultra-creative pond skimming contraptions. Judging is based on style, grace, creativity, and of course, successfully crossing the lake.

Registration takes place on the Sun Deck rotunda at noon with the competition starting at 2 pm. The cost to participate is $15. All entrants MUST have a life preserver and a helmet, and sign a liability release form. Participants are split into five classes: men skiers, women skiers, men snowboarders, women snowboarders, and unlimited (competitors on creative contraptions). The grand prize is an 06/07 Squaw Valley midweek season pass and $100 cash prizes will be awarded to the winner of each class. The awards ceremony and deck party take place on the sundeck immediately following the event.